Surviving a family Thanksgiving is like trying to pick a wine at the store—there’s a lot to choose from, and sometimes you end up with something that makes you question your life decisions. It’s like deciding between comfy sweatpants and those jeans that promise to make you look fantastic but actually make you question if breathing is overrated. You go for what feels right, knowing that the wrong choice could lead to a night of regret or, in the case of family gatherings, a lecture on the benefits of kale from your nutrition-conscious cousin.
Just as you confidently reach for that tried-and-true bottle of Pinot Noir that never disappoints, steering clear of certain touchy topics at the table becomes second nature. It’s a bit like knowing you prefer a crisp Sauvignon Blanc over a heavy red – you avoid the potential heaviness of a heated family debate and keep things light and enjoyable. So, whether you’re opting for a reliable Burgundy to complement the Thanksgiving feast or smoothly redirecting a conversation away from Uncle Larry’s cooking critique, the key is knowing what works for you. After all, in the world of both wine and family gatherings, confidence and self-awareness make the choices a whole lot smoother. All jokes aside, here are some of my suggestions from $16-$36 that should complement the variety of dishes typically served. Cheers to an effortlessly enjoyable Thanksgiving!
White Wine:
Burgundy: Bourgogne aligoté is a delicious white wine that is young, stylish and is a little different. It is pale gold in color and offers a well-balanced taste, and ranges from a fruity bouquet with notes of apple and lemon to a more floral palette. In the mouth, this vibrant wine tickles the taste buds. A talented producer such as Albert Bichot makes one for about $20.
Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and refreshing, Sauvignon Blanc can be a great choice to balance the richness of Thanksgiving dishes. Lots of choices here, but I’m particually fond of Bedrock Sauvignon Blanc from Sonoma, about $35
Godello: Godello presents fragrances that evoke the characteristics of a premium Chardonnay. Hints of green apple, pear, and citrus, accompanied by undertones of white flowers and fresh herbs. Its shows traces of vanilla or toasted oak, especially from oak aging. My personal favorite: Ladeiras do Xil Godello Gaba do Xil, about $25.
Red Wine:
Pinot Noir: This red wine is often recommended for Thanksgiving due to its versatility and ability to complement both white and dark meat. Although there are wonderful Sonoma CA Pinot Noirs, I’m all in on Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley, OR. Evesham Wood Vineyard and Grochau Cellars, both about $25.
Zinfandel: A fruit-forward and spicy red wine that can stand up to the bold flavors of Thanksgiving. My favorites include Bedrock California Old Vine Zinfandel 2021 and Marietta Cellars North Coast Román Zinfandel 2020 both around $25
Garnacha: Rich fruit flavors, spicy notes, and a characteristic warmth. Either of these will please any palate. Garnacha de Fuego 2021 $16, Breca Garnacha 2018 $18
Rosé:
American: Matthiasson California Rose $29. Napa
French Lucien Crochet Rose $36, Loire Valley
Spanish Los Bermejos Listán Negro Rosado Lanzarote DO 2022, $35. Canary Islands
Italian: Montenidoli Canaiuolo Rosado 2022, $22, Tuscany